Temperature measurement during aircraft de-icing

Depending on weather conditions, aircraft must be de-iced to ensure safe operation in the winter. This task is performed using SAFEAERO de-icing vehicles, which are available in different versions and sizes. All vehicles are designed for one-man operation. They are equipped with 2–7 tanks totaling a volume of up to 14000 litres. A single tank can have a maximum capacity of 4500 litres. The glycol / water mixing ratio can be adapted directly on site depending on weather conditions.

Strictly observing the glycol water mixing ratio will ensure that the de-icing process runs smoothly. The temperatures of the mixing substances in the tanks must be strictly adhered to as well, regardless of the ambient temperature. All of the tanks are heated using heat exchangers and electric heating. Temperatures must be measured with very rapid response times in order to react immediately to changing ambient conditions.

De-icing criteria

• Glycol/water mixing ratio: 3…75 %, infinitely adjustable, or 100 % on request
• Temperature of the de-icing substances in the tanks: up to max. 98 °C
• Properties of the de-icing fluid at the spray nozzle: Temperature 60…85 °C, discharge volume
• 30…230 Liter/min., max. pressure 15 bar
• Ambient temperature: ≥ – 40 °C

KROHNE provided five OPTITEMP TRA S11 temperature sensors and five transmitters (4" TT11C and 1" TT11R) for this application. Three temperature sensors with corresponding transmitters measure the temperatures in the three tanks (3 = tank with water / 4 = tank with type I glycol / 5 = tank for type IV glycol). All tanks are equipped with heating. Depending on the lowest measured ambient temperature, measured either on the vehicle or at the cabin, the required de-icing mixture ratio will be mixed accurately with water and glycol. This takes place with the help of mixing valves. The de-icing fluid then flows via the telescoping arm and the swivel arm to the spray nozzle where the temperature is measured once again. On the brand new SAFEAERO 223XXL, up to 11 temperature sensors with corresponding transmitters are used.

KROHNE's ability to quickly and easily supply all temperature sensors and transmitters, even the special versions, was a big advantage for SAFEAERO. No maintenance and reliable temperature measurements guarantee smooth use throughout the entire winter. Replacements are sent without delay. Exact temperature measurements reduce glycol consumption which, in turn, protects the environment as well as giving the customer an economic benefit.